Numenius phaeopus ssp. variegates (Asiatic whimbrel) is a rare (New Zealand) migrant wading bird that nests in Siberia and northern parts of Europe. Only about 150 of these birds migrate each summer to New Zealand. Though they can be widespread throughout New Zealand’s estuaries most are recorded in the large northern harbours and on Farewell Spit.They are a very wary bird that roosts at the edge of godwit flocks and they are difficult to approach. They are the same size as a godwit but are distinguishable by their decurved bill. Their body length is 42cm (bill tip to tail).They feed on marine worms and crabs that they find in the mud with their decurved bill.